摘要:
An improved thermionic generator constructed using microenginerring techniques is described. This device is easy to construct in large numbers, efficient, and inexpensive. A preferred embodiment uses micromachined silicon to produce a thermionic converter cell. These may be joined together in large arrays to form a thermionic generator.
摘要:
A nuclear powered direct energy converter system employing a cylindrical radiator spaced from the converter and particularly well suited for lunar applications. One embodiment is adapted to be positioned in a lunar crater which constitutes radiation shielding, while another is adapted to receive radiation shielding in the form of lunar material. Reflectors positioned at an angle with respect to the cylindrical radiator reflect thermal radiation received therefrom in an axial direction.
摘要:
Techniques are provided for emission of an electron current from an electrode and converting energy released by nuclear decay to useful electrical work. An electrode assembly is provided which includes an emitter material and a radioactive source such that nuclear decay from the radioactive source causes or enhances electron emission from the electrode. A thermoelectron energy converter is provided which includes an emitter electrode, a radioactive source in the vicinity of the emitter electrode, a collector electrode, an enclosure, and electrical leads. Nuclear decay from the radioactive source causes or enhances electron emission from the emitter electrode. The electrons emitted from the emitter electrode travel to the collector electrode and can be driven through an external circuit, outputting electrical power.
摘要:
A method for generating electricity includes generating electricity at a first reactor with a nuclear fuel element and removing the nuclear fuel element from the first reactor. The method also includes providing the nuclear fuel element at a second reactor and generating electricity at the second reactor with the nuclear fuel element.
摘要:
A power generation device may include a radiation source, an emitter, and a collector. The emitter may be formed adjacent to the radiation source. The emitter may include a high-density material. The collector may be adjacent to the radiation source and include a low-density material. The emitter is between the radiation source and the collector. An insulator may be positioned between the emitter and the collector. An emitter of a nuclear battery and a method of forming an emitter of a nuclear battery are also disclosed.
摘要:
An energy source for a heat-utilizing device which includes a source of gamma radiation, an absorber of such radiation and a heat-utilization device in heat-transfer relationship with the absorber of gamma radiation. The enclosure of the energy source is so constructed that additional heat-utilizing device may also be energized from the same source of gamma radiation.